"They want more context behind their education," she says. "They want to know why things work the way they do -why they're important. And so, in the girls' classes, we can focus on giving girls the context that makes their learning more meaningful."

Seventh grader Taylor Mayes was excited about the rockets. She says she hopes the school will help her reach her career goals.

"I want to be a veterinarian," Mayes says. "And if an animal hurts its leg and needs a new one, I can make one out of robotics."

Chevron donated the rockets through the "Donors Choose" online charity. The company has pledged up to $500,000 for Sacramento County schools this year.